Murder suspect arrested after Gibraltar soldier dies in Brecon
Police in Wales have arrested a 23-year old man on suspicion of murder following the death of a soldier from the Royal Gibraltar Regiment in Brecon last night.
The death was confirmed by the Ministry of Defence, which has contacted the soldier’s immediate family.
“It is with great sadness and regret that the MoD can confirm a soldier from The Royal Gibraltar Regiment died in Brecon in the early hours of this morning,” the MoD said in a statement tonight.
“Dyfed-Powys Police are currently investigating and it would therefore be inappropriate to comment further on the circumstances.”
“Our thoughts are with his family and friends and the Regiment asks that their privacy is respected at this difficult time.”
Brecon is home to the Infantry Battle School, where British regiments including the Royal Gibraltar Regiment regularly train.
The man arrested last night by Dyfed-Powys Police is being held in custody on suspicion of murder and the investigation is on-going.
The BBC reported that the soldier was not wearing army uniform and there was nothing to indicate his death was linked to extremism.
The area in Brecon town centre was cordoned off as police investigated the incident.
Police in Brecon are appealing for anyone who was in the vicinity of Lion Street, Bethel Square, Tredegar Street and High Street between 12.30am and 01.30am or has any information that could assist with the inquiry to call police on 101 immediately quoting reference number DP-20160508-024.
Chief Minister Fabian Picardo said he was saddened by the tragic news.
This is tragic news. I was informed very early this morning. Our thoughts are with this soldier's family today. https://t.co/siTotjw5nz
— Fabian Picardo (@FabianPicardo) May 8, 2016
Our thoughts are with soldier's family. HMGoG told immediately. MOD statement following death of soldier in Brecon https://t.co/fgEKft9zFi
— Fabian Picardo (@FabianPicardo) May 8, 2016
Opposition MP Trevor Hammond also expressed shock at the news from Wales.
Shocked at the news from Brecon in Wales of the death of a soldier from the Royal Gibraltar Regiment, heartfelt condolences to the family
— Trevor Hammond (@TrevorHammond1) May 8, 2016
